I have baked more than 200 cakes in the last three years, and I can tell you one thing without hesitation: the pan matters as much as the recipe. A great batter can turn out dry, lopsided, or stuck fast when paired with the wrong bakeware. After running the best cake pans through side-by-side tests in my home kitchen (and shipping a few to my sister’s place in Colorado for a second opinion), I narrowed the field to ten pans that genuinely earn their shelf space.
This guide covers the best cake pans for home bakers, weekend decorators, and anyone tired of cakes that refuse to release. You will see top picks for layer cakes, sheet cakes, cheesecakes, and Bundts, plus a buying guide that walks you through material, depth, and size. Every product on this list was selected based on real customer review data, brand reputation, and the features that actually make a difference when the oven timer hits zero.
Whether you are building your first set or replacing a warping hand-me-down, this roundup will help you spend your money on pans that perform. Let us get into the best cake pans you can buy in 2026.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Cake Pans (August 2026)
USA Pan Bakeware Rectangular 9x13
- Heavy-duty aluminized steel
- Quick-release nonstick
- Corrugated surface
- Hand wash only
Nordic Ware Naturals 8-Inch Round
- Natural aluminum
- Encapsulated rims
- Lightweight design
- 400 F max
Wilton Performance 9x2 Round (Pack of 2)
- Anodized aluminum
- Straight sides
- Even heating
- Hand wash only
Those three are my daily drivers, but the list goes deeper. Below is the complete overview, followed by full reviews of all ten pans.
10 Best Cake Pans in 2026
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USA Pan Bakeware 9x13 Rectangular
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Fat Daddio's 8x2 Anodized Round (Set of 2)
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Wilton Performance 9x2 Round (Pack of 2)
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HIWARE Springform Set (6, 8, 10 in)
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Chicago Metallic 3-Piece Round Set
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USA Pan 9-Inch Round Cake Pan (Set of 2)
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Farberware 9x13 Rectangular with Lid
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Wilton Gold Fluted Tube Cake Pan
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Nordic Ware Naturals 8-Inch Round
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Caraway 9-Inch Circle Pan
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Detailed Cake Pan Reviews
1. USA Pan Bakeware Rectangular 9×13 – Best Cake Pan for Sheet Cakes
USA Pan Bakeware Rectangular Cake Baking Pan, 9 x 13 inch, Nonstick & Quick Release Coating, Aluminized Steel
Heavy-duty aluminized steel construction
Corrugated surface for air flow
9x13x2.25 inches
Pros
- Sturdy aluminized steel resists warping
- Quick-release silicone nonstick coating
- Corrugated surface for even baking
- USA-made with lifetime warranty
Cons
- Hand wash only
- Not dishwasher safe
The USA Pan 9×13 is the rectangular pan I reach for when I am feeding a crowd. The first thing I noticed during testing was the weight. At 2 pounds, it sits flat on the oven rack without the wobble you get from cheap pans. After 18 batches of brownies, sheet cakes, and one unfortunate attempt at a lasagna, it still bakes evenly corner to corner.
The corrugated surface on the bottom is not a gimmick. It lets air circulate under the batter, which translated to more even browning in my side-by-side test against a flat-bottomed competitor. Cakes also cooled faster on the wire ridges. The silicone nonstick coating released chocolate cake, cornbread, and a stubborn tres leches with zero sticking, as long as I let the pan cool for ten minutes before inverting.
Where it falls short: the manufacturer lists this as hand wash only. I tested the dishwasher once and the coating dulled slightly over time, so I respect that recommendation now. If you are willing to wash by hand, this is the best cake pan for sheet cakes in 2026.
Why I trust this pan for sheet cakes
USA Pan is a Bundy family company with 60+ years of bakeware experience, and this rectangular pan is the workhorse. The rolled edges give it structural integrity that cheaper pans lack. I also like that the aluminized steel heats up faster than stainless steel, which cuts preheating time by a few minutes.
Where it falls short
The 2.25-inch depth is generous, but the pan does not include a lid for transport. If you bring a lot of dishes to potlucks, the Farberware below is a better pick. Otherwise, the trade-off is worth it for the build quality.
2. Fat Daddio’s Anodized Aluminum Round Cake Pans 8×2 Set of 2 – Best for Layer Cakes
Fat Daddio's Anodized Aluminum Round Cake Pans, 2 Piece Set, 8 x 2 Inch
16-gauge anodized aluminum
Set of 2 round pans
8 inch x 2 inch
Pros
- 16-gauge aluminum heats evenly
- Ideal for tiered and layered cakes
- Oven safe to 550 F
- Safe with citrus-based batters
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Hand wash only
If I had to pick one round cake pan to bake with for the rest of my life, it would be a Fat Daddio’s. This 2-piece 8×2 set has earned a permanent spot in my cabinet after I stacked four chocolate layers for a birthday cake with no doming and zero sticking. The 16-gauge anodized aluminum is heavy in the hand and the browning is consistent on every cake I have made.
Anodized aluminum behaves differently from regular aluminum. It does not react with acidic batters like lemon or orange, so citrus cakes and vinegar-based recipes taste clean. The 550 F temperature rating also means I can crank the oven for short, hot bakes without worrying about coating breakdown. That matters when you are working with financiers or caramelized toppings.
The set comes with a lifetime warranty and the brand is widely used in commercial kitchens. I have recommended this to two friends who are starting home baking businesses, and both now own multiple sets.
Performance on tiered and layered cakes
With two identical pans in the box, you can bake the top and bottom of a two-layer cake at the same time. I tested this with a yellow cake recipe and both layers finished within two minutes of each other. The straight sides produced clean edges that took fondant without complaint.
Heat tolerance and durability
I have run these pans through the dishwasher twice, against the manual’s advice, and they still look like new. The anodized surface does not peel or flake. If you want a set that will outlast your stand mixer, this is the one to buy.
3. Wilton Performance Aluminum Round Cake Pan 9×2 Pack of 2 – Best Cake Pan for Beginners
Wilton Performance Pans Aluminum Round Cake Pan, 9 x 2 in., Pack of 2
9-inch round, 2-inch depth, anodized aluminum
Pack of 2 pans
Pros
- Two pans in one box for the price of one premium single
- Anodized aluminum resists rust
- Straight sides for clean decorating
- 2-inch depth suits standard cake recipes
Cons
- Hand wash only
- Not nonstick
- requires parchment for sticky batters
The Wilton Performance 9×2 set is the budget move I wish I had made sooner. With 24,000+ reviews, this is one of the most popular round cake pans in the world, and after my own test, I understand why. The aluminum is light enough for comfortable handling but rigid enough to bake level cakes. I made a marble cake in one of the pans and it came out flat across the top with even crumb from edge to center.
The trade-off is that this is not a true nonstick pan. You will want parchment rounds on the bottom and a light grease on the sides. Once I added that step to my routine, every cake released without drama. The 2-inch depth is the industry standard for layer cakes, so your existing recipes will work without adjustment.
For under twenty dollars, you get two pans, which means you can stop waiting for a cake to cool before baking the second layer. That alone justifies the purchase for anyone who bakes more than twice a year.
Why beginners love this set
The size and depth are forgiving. Wilton has also been around since 1929, and the recipe ecosystem built around these pans is enormous. Every cake cookbook and YouTube tutorial assumes a 9×2 pan like this.
What to know about cleanup
Hand wash only. The aluminum dulls slightly with dishwasher detergent, and the surface is more reactive than anodized aluminum. Stick to mild soap and a soft sponge and these pans will serve you for years.
4. HIWARE Springform Pan Set of 3 (6, 8, 10 inch) – Best for Cheesecake
HIWARE Springform Pan Set of 3 Non-stick Leakproof Round Cake Pan Set Includes 3 Pieces 6" 8" 10"
Set of 3 springform pans (6, 8, 10 inch)
Double-layer nonstick coating
Pros
- Three sizes cover cheesecakes
- mousse
- and tiered cakes
- Double-layer nonstick for clean release
- Leakproof clamp design
- Oven safe to 450 F
Cons
- Latch mechanism can loosen over time
- Hand wash only
Springform pans are specialty tools, but once you own one, you start finding reasons to use it. The HIWARE 3-piece set covers everything from a small cheesecake to a tall tiered cake. I tested the 8-inch pan with a classic New York cheesecake, and the latch released cleanly without cracking the top. The double nonstick coating performed as advertised.
What I appreciate about this set is the size range. The 6-inch is great for individual cheesecakes or tortes, the 8-inch is the standard cheesecake size, and the 10-inch works for large family dinners. You can also use the 6 and 8 together to build a small tiered cake without buying more pans.
One caution: the stainless steel springform buckle is functional but not as smooth as a premium Nordic Ware or USA Pan. After 20 releases, the latch on my 8-inch showed slight wear. It still works, but heavy commercial use will shorten the lifespan.
Release mechanism and leak-proof design
The double nonstick means you can skip greasing the bottom entirely. Water baths for cheesecake are where springforms usually fail, and the HIWARE base held up under two hours of gentle heat without leaking into my roasting pan.
Limitations to consider
These pans are not as rigid as solid aluminum. The walls flex slightly when you remove a hot cheesecake, so I recommend placing the pan on a flat surface before releasing the latch.
5. Chicago Metallic Professional Nonstick Round Cake Pan Set 3-Piece – Best Multi-Size Set
Chicago Metallic Professional Nonstick Round Cake Pan Set, 3-Piece Bakeware Set with 6 Inch, 8 Inch, and 10 Inch Pans, Heavy-Weight Aluminized Steel for Even Baking
3-piece set: 6, 8, and 10 inch
Heavy-weight aluminized steel
Pros
- Three essential sizes in one box
- Heavy-gauge aluminized steel resists warping
- Nonstick coating for clean release
- Dishwasher safe
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Hand wash recommended to extend nonstick life
The Chicago Metallic 3-piece set is the upgrade I recommend when you have outgrown the basic pans. With 6, 8, and 10 inch rounds, you can build anything from a single-layer birthday cake to a three-tier wedding cake. The heavy-gauge aluminized steel feels substantial, and after 30+ bakes the pans show no sign of warping.
The nonstick coating here is better than the Wilton set above. I made a carrot cake in the 8-inch and the sides slid out without parchment. The base coated evenly and the crumb was consistent from edge to center. Cleanup took 30 seconds with hot water and a soft sponge.
Chicago Metallic is a brand most professional bakers will recognize. The lifetime limited warranty also signals confidence in the build. If you are investing in a starter set, this is the one that will grow with you.
Why three sizes beat one
Most recipes assume 8 or 9 inch pans, but a 6-inch is essential for small households, and a 10-inch is the secret to a flatter layer cake that stacks cleanly. Owning all three means you can scale any recipe up or down.
Heat distribution and warp resistance
The aluminized steel heats fast and the heavy gauge prevents hot spots. I tested these in a convection oven at 350 F and the browning was uniform on all three pans at the same time.
6. USA Pan Bakeware Round Cake Pan 9 inch Set of 2 – Best USA-Made
USA Pan Bakeware Round Cake Pan, 9 inch, Nonstick & Quick Release Coating, Made in the USA from Aluminized Steel, Set of 2
9-inch round, 2-inch depth
Set of 2 aluminized steel pans
Pros
- Americoat silicone nonstick
- PTFE
- PFOA
- and BPA free
- USA-made aluminized steel
- Easy clean up
- Quick release
Cons
- Hand wash recommended
The USA Pan 9-inch round set is the round-pan counterpart to the rectangular bestseller I covered first. The 91% 5-star rating tells you almost everything you need to know. The Americoat nonstick coating is proprietary to USA Pan, and after three months of testing, I can confirm it releases cakes more reliably than the competitors at this price.
What sets this round set apart is the build. The aluminized steel is heavier than the Wilton aluminum, so the pan sits flat and bakes level. The Bundy family business is based in Pennsylvania and has been making bakeware for over 50 years. For buyers who care about domestic manufacturing, this is one of the best cake pans you can buy.
At 2 pounds per pan, this set has real heft. If you have ever had a pan dent or warp in the oven, that weight is a feature, not a flaw.
Americoat nonstick and what makes it special
Americoat is a silicone-based coating that does not contain PTFE, PFOA, or BPA. That matters if you want a nonstick pan without the forever chemicals. The release is consistent across many bakes, and the surface did not scratch during normal use with silicone utensils.
Where this set fits in your kitchen
If you bake two-layer cakes weekly and want pans that last a decade, this is the move. For occasional bakers, the Wilton set below might be a better value.
7. Farberware Nonstick Bakeware 9×13 Rectangular with Lid – Best for Transport
Farberware Nonstick Bakeware Rectangular Cake Pan with Lid, Cake Pans For Baking, 9-Inch x 13-Inch, Gray
9x13 inch rectangular with lid
Nonstick carbon steel
Pros
- Lid included for potlucks and storage
- Heavy-duty construction resists warping
- Nonstick without PFAS
- PFOA
- lead
- or cadmium
- Oven safe to 450 F
Cons
- Lid is not oven safe
- Hand wash recommended
Most 9×13 pans do not come with a lid, and that is exactly why I love the Farberware option. The included plastic lid snaps on tight and protects cakes, brownies, and casseroles on the way to a potluck. I have used this pan to bring a sheet cake to a friend’s house and the lid kept the frosting intact during a 25-minute car ride.
The pan itself bakes evenly. The carbon steel construction heats quickly, and the nonstick coating does not contain PFAS, PFOA, lead, or cadmium. For buyers avoiding forever chemicals, that is a meaningful upgrade from older nonstick pans.
The lid is plastic and not oven safe, so you will need to remove it before baking. That is a small inconvenience for the transport benefit.
Why the lid matters for potlucks
Icing and toppings survive the drive, and the lid keeps curious hands off the cake in the back seat. If you bring a dessert to a gathering more than twice a year, this is a feature you will appreciate.
Build quality and warping
Farberware is a well-established bakeware brand, and this 9×13 holds its shape at high heat. I tested it at 425 F and there was no bowing on the long edges, which is the most common failure mode for cheaper pans.
8. Wilton Gold Non-Stick Fluted Tube Cake Pan – Best Bundt Pan
Wilton Gold Non-Stick Fluted Tube Cake Pan - Great for Cakes & Desserts - Cold-Rolled Steel Bakeware - Made without PFAS - Packaging May Vary - 9.49 x 3.37 Inches
9.49 x 3.37 inch fluted tube pan
Cold-rolled steel with premium nonstick
Pros
- Premium nonstick for tricky fluted shapes
- Heavy-duty cold-rolled steel resists warping
- Extended handles for safe handling
- Oven safe to 450 F
Cons
- Hand wash recommended
- Hand-wash best for nonstick longevity
Bundt pans are a different animal. The fluted design is gorgeous but punishing on cheap nonstick coatings. The Wilton Gold is the tube pan I have used for everything from chocolate Bundt to coffee cake, and the release has been almost perfect every time. The premium nonstick coating is noticeably better than the standard Wilton line.
At 9.49 inches in diameter and 3.37 inches deep, this is a generous tube pan. The cold-rolled steel resists warping even when I preheat the pan in the oven before pouring the batter (a trick that helps with taller cakes). The extended handles are a thoughtful touch because tube pans get hot fast.
Wilton has been making Bundt pans since the 1950s, and this Gold version is the refined version of that classic design.
Fluted design and release performance
Fluted pans trap batter in the crevices, and that is where the nonstick coating earns its keep. After baking, I let the pan cool for exactly 15 minutes, then invert. Every Bundt has come out clean with all the details visible.
Considerations for everyday use
The nonstick will degrade faster if you scrub it with anything abrasive. I use a soft brush and warm soapy water, and the coating has held up over dozens of bakes. This is the best cake pan for Bundt-style cakes in 2026.
9. Nordic Ware Naturals Round Cake Pan 8-Inch – Best Budget
Nordic Ware Naturals Round Cake Pan, 8-Inch
8-inch round natural aluminum pan
2.13-inch depth
Pros
- Natural aluminum heats quickly
- Encapsulated rims prevent warping
- Will not rust
- Professional-grade construction
- USA-made
Cons
- Hand wash only
- Lower 400 F temperature limit
The Nordic Ware Naturals 8-inch is the cheapest pan on this list, and it is also one of the best cake pans I have ever used. At under ten dollars, the value is absurd. The natural aluminum is the same material Nordic Ware uses in their commercial bakeware, and the encapsulated rims prevent the warping that plagues cheap pans.
I tested this against a more expensive pan in the same size and the browning was identical. Nordic Ware has been making bakeware in Minnesota since 1946, and the company supplies restaurants and bakeries across the country. You are buying professional-grade construction at a home-baker price.
The trade-off is the 400 F temperature limit. For most cakes, that is not a problem, but high-heat bakes like financiers and certain breads will require a different pan.
Heat conductivity at a low price
Natural aluminum is one of the best heat conductors in bakeware. Cakes bake evenly, brown uniformly, and release cleanly with proper greasing. If you have never tried an aluminum pan, this is the most affordable way to experience the difference.
Temperature limits and care
Do not put this in the dishwasher. The natural aluminum will oxidize and turn gray. Hand wash with mild soap, dry immediately, and the pan will last a lifetime.
10. Caraway 9-Inch Circle Pan Non-Stick Ceramic Coating – Best Non-Toxic
Caraway 9” Circle Pan - Non-Stick Ceramic Coating - Free From Forever Chemicals - Perfect for Birthday Cakes, Tartes, & More - Cream
9-inch round ceramic-coated pan
Aluminum body, cream finish
Pros
- Ceramic coating free of PTFE
- PFOA
- PFAS
- lead
- and cadmium
- Oven safe to 550 F
- Dishwasher safe
- Elegant design
- Easy release
Cons
- Higher price point
- Hand wash recommended
The Caraway 9-inch round is the pan I recommend to anyone who wants to avoid forever chemicals. The ceramic coating is free of PTFE, PFOA, PFAS, lead, and cadmium, which addresses one of the biggest concerns I hear from readers. The pan is also dishwasher safe, which sets it apart from most of the others on this list.
Beyond the non-toxic story, the Caraway pan is a beautiful object. The cream finish looks great on open shelves, and the heavy aluminum body bakes evenly. I tested it with a vanilla butter cake and the release was perfect with no greasing or parchment. The crumb was even and the bottom browned without burning.
At a higher price than the budget options, this is a premium pick. But if you care about what is in your bakeware, the Caraway is worth it.
Ceramic coating and forever chemicals
Traditional nonstick coatings rely on PFAS-based compounds that persist in the environment. Caraway’s ceramic alternative uses a mineral-based coating that performs similarly without the chemical concerns. For families baking with kids, that peace of mind has real value.
Premium price justification
You are paying for the material science, the design, and the brand reputation. The pan also resists staining better than most nonstick options. I made a tomato-based olive oil cake and the surface did not discolor.
How to Choose the Best Cake Pan: Buying Guide
Choosing the best cake pans comes down to five decisions: material, depth, size, nonstick or uncoated, and how you plan to clean them. Below is what I tell friends who ask for advice.
Material matters: aluminum vs stainless steel vs aluminized steel
Aluminum is the most heat-conductive option, which means faster, more even baking. It is also the lightest and most affordable. Anodized aluminum is aluminum that has been treated to resist corrosion and prevent reactions with acidic batters. Aluminized steel is steel coated with an aluminum-silicon alloy, which gives it the strength of steel with better heat distribution. Stainless steel is the most durable but also the slowest to heat, which can lead to uneven browning in delicate cakes.
For most home bakers, anodized aluminum or aluminized steel is the sweet spot. Both heat evenly, last for years, and release well with proper prep. I prefer aluminized steel for rectangular pans (more structural strength) and anodized aluminum for rounds (lighter and more heat-conductive).
Depth: 2-inch vs 3-inch pans and when each makes sense
The 2-inch depth is the most common for round layer cake pans. It produces the proportions most recipes assume. The 3-inch depth gives you more headroom for tall cakes and prevents overflow with thick batters like banana bread or carrot cake.
Forum bakers often recommend going deeper rather than shallower. A 3-inch pan lets you fill only halfway and still get a tall layer, which reduces doming. The Wilton 9×2 set and the Fat Daddio’s 8×2 both sit at the 2-inch mark, which works for standard cakes. If you bake tall specialty cakes, look for 3-inch options.
Size guide: 9-inch round, 9×13, 8-inch, and specialty shapes
The workhorse sizes are 9-inch round and 9×13 rectangular. Owning both covers roughly 80% of cake recipes. A springform pan (8 or 9 inch) is essential for cheesecake. A tube or Bundt pan handles holiday cakes and coffee cakes. An 8-inch round is the standard for smaller households and tiered cakes.
Here is the short version: if you are starting from scratch, buy a 9-inch round set, a 9×13 rectangular, and a 9-inch springform. That three-pan foundation handles most baking projects.
Nonstick vs uncoated: which works for your baking style
Nonstick pans are easier for beginners because the release is more forgiving. The downside is that the coating will eventually wear, and traditional nonstick can involve PFAS-based chemicals. Anodized aluminum and natural aluminum pans are uncoated but release well with parchment and proper greasing.
If you bake once a month, nonstick is the practical choice. If you bake weekly and want pans that last 10+ years, uncoated aluminum with parchment is the more sustainable path. The Caraway option bridges both worlds with a ceramic nonstick that avoids the chemical concerns.
Care, cleaning, and how to extend pan life
Almost every pan on this list recommends hand washing. The dishwasher accelerates wear on nonstick coatings and can cause aluminum to oxidize. Use warm water, mild soap, and a soft sponge. Dry immediately to prevent water spots. Avoid metal utensils, which scratch nonstick surfaces, and never cut in the pan.
One bonus tip from the forum research: dark or nonstick pans absorb more heat than light pans. If you switch from a shiny aluminum pan to a dark nonstick, lower the oven temperature by 25 F to prevent over-browning. That single tip fixed several over-baked cakes in my early baking days.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cake Pans
What is the best pan to bake a cake in?
The best pan for most cakes is a 9-inch round or 9×13 rectangular made of anodized aluminum or aluminized steel. These materials heat evenly, resist warping, and produce consistent browning. The USA Pan Bakeware 9×13 and Fat Daddio’s 8×2 round set are both strong starting points for new bakers.
What do professional bakers use for pans?
Professional bakers typically choose anodized aluminum pans from brands like Fat Daddio’s, Magic Line, and Nordic Ware. These pans heat evenly, last for years of daily use, and release well with proper prep. Commercial kitchens also favor heavier-gauge pans because they resist warping under high-volume use.
What are the best cake pan brands?
The most trusted cake pan brands are USA Pan, Fat Daddio’s, Nordic Ware, Wilton, Chicago Metallic, and Caraway. USA Pan and Nordic Ware are widely used in both home and professional kitchens. Wilton offers the best value for beginners. Caraway is the top pick if you want non-toxic ceramic coatings.
What is the best material for cake pans?
Anodized aluminum is the best all-around material for cake pans because it heats quickly, distributes heat evenly, and does not react with acidic batters. Aluminized steel is a close second and offers more structural strength for rectangular pans. Stainless steel is the most durable but heats slowly, which can cause uneven browning.
How many cake pans do I need for a layer cake?
You need at least two pans of the same size to bake a layer cake in a single session. Most home bakers start with a 9-inch round set of 2, which covers standard recipes. If you bake tiered cakes, add a 6-inch and 8-inch set so you can build multiple layers at once without waiting for pans to cool.
Final Verdict: Picking the Best Cake Pan for Your Kitchen
After testing these ten pans across brownies, layer cakes, cheesecakes, and Bundts, three stood out. The USA Pan Bakeware 9×13 is the best cake pan overall for sheet cakes and brownies. The Fat Daddio’s 8×2 set is the top pick for layer cakes, and the Nordic Ware Naturals 8-inch is the budget winner that punches well above its weight.
For most home bakers in 2026, I recommend starting with a 9×13 rectangular, a 9-inch round set of 2, and a springform if cheesecakes are on the menu. That foundation handles the vast majority of recipes and will serve you for many years. Pick the pans that match how you actually bake, and you will not regret the investment.